Polish Troops (Leave Rations)

Oral Answers to Questions — British Army – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 13 Mai 1947.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Stephen Swingler Mr Stephen Swingler , Stafford 12:00, 13 Mai 1947

asked the Secretary of State for War why the Polish troops stationed at Seighford, in the county of Stafford, have been issued with ration cards and clothing coupons.

Photo of Mr John Freeman Mr John Freeman , Watford

A limited number of leave ration cards has been issued to these Poles, to which they are entitled in the same way as British troops. No clothing coupons have been issued to them.

Photo of Mr Stephen Swingler Mr Stephen Swingler , Stafford

Is my hon. Friend aware that although there is every sympathy for these unfortunate men in my constituency, some disturbance is being caused because of the large number of purchases being made there? Will he get into touch with other Departments to see that additional supplies of goods are sent to the constituency to meet this extra demand?

Photo of Mr John Freeman Mr John Freeman , Watford

That would not be necessary. These leave ration cards are issued on exactly the same terms as to British troops, and I am sure that now we are looking after these Poles my hon. Friend would not wish them to be deprived of the ordinary facilities of Army life.

Photo of Mr Stephen Swingler Mr Stephen Swingler , Stafford

Would not my hon. Friend agree that where several thousand Polish troops are involved there is a great additional demand for supplies? That is having a peculiar effect on supplies in the shops.

Photo of Mr John Freeman Mr John Freeman , Watford

The ration cards are issued in consultation with the Ministry of Food.